Volkswagen Recalls 28,000 Vehicles for Inadvertent Airbag Deployment

Volkswagen has issued an auto defect recall for 27,822 vehicles because the airbags in these vehicles could deploy suddenly and inadvertently. According to a CNET news report, the recall includes 2015-2016 Tiguan and 2015-2016 CC. The Tiguans were built between March 12, 2015, and Dec. 19, 2015, while the CCs in this recall were manufactured between May 6, 2015 and Dec. 17, 2015.

Problem with Airbag Control Module

The issue here arises from the airbag control module, which basically tells the airbag what to do and when. A defective capacitor in this module can cause the airbag system to act incorrectly. Specifically, it might cause airbags to deactivate. However, it could also cause the airbags to deploy at an improper time. This could greatly increase the risk of injury whether a crash has occurred or not. The airbag warning light may illuminate in such cases, whereby owners will get the warning that something is amiss.

Volkswagen initially received information from a single field case on this issue in late 2017. Second and third cases were reported in 2018. When the recall begins, technicians at dealerships will flash the cars with a software update that is able to detect an increase in resistance within the module. This is what occurs when the faulty capacitor in the module fails. If increased resistance is found, technicians will replace the airbag control module. Vehicle owners should be getting these recall notifications from Volkswagen in the mail around mid-September.

Auto Product Liability Issues

Airbags are meant to protect drivers and passengers. However, when these safety devices are defective, they can cause more harm than good. If you or a loved one has been injured by a defective or malfunctioning airbag that doesn’t deploy or has deployed inadvertently, then, you can hold the automaker and/or component manufacturer liable for the injuries, damages and losses caused.

If you or a loved one has been injured as the result of an auto defect, you may be able to file an auto product liability lawsuit against the automaker, parts manufacturer, dealership, etc. Injured victims can seek compensation for damages including medical expenses, lost wages, hospitalization, cost of rehabilitative treatment, pain and suffering and emotional distress. An experienced auto defect attorney can help victims and their families in such cases better understand their legal rights and options.

Source: https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/vw-recall-cc-tiguan-inadvertent-airbag-deployment/